Some seemingly minor changes. All of the yard on the left is now Gargraves track, plus I started adding some scenery. Roadbed, gravel, bushes. Straightened out some track and made the up ramp less steep. Some of the engines would lose their rubber tires going up the old ramp.
A neat looking layout there! I think you will like the performance of the gargraves O-42 turnouts–they have been trouble-free for me, and my roster spans almost 60 years, from 1938 to 1996.
Can you add two turnouts to the upper layout, (in the front, near the numeral “6”), to cut across that corner and allow a consist to “escape” the loop without backing?
I can’t say mine were trouble free. I had some serious derailment problems with them:
http://cs.trains.com/TRCCS/forums/t/181479.aspx
But, after Dremelling out a “nest” for the moveable part, they have been reliable. I like the small size and good operation of the Z-Stuff actuators.
Thanks for the suggestion. I enjoy letting a train run by itself on the lower section, going thru both reversals, and the route it takes changes on each circuit. Maybe I could include the upper section in that.
I really appreciate your suggestion for adding the reversal “loop”. Here is the layout one week later:
I have learned how to show only the upper level in this old AutoCad:
Here is a foto of the MP-54 in the reversal loop.
Really like this layout and how you’ve shown the changes and evolutions. I’m about ready to start on my permanent layout and I have about the same kind of space you do. I’ll be using 3 sheets of 4ft x 8ft plywood, that will be L-shaped. Haven’t decided yet on what kind of track I’ll use. All I currently have is old O27, and a few pieces of Fastrack. Thinking about using O31, but will have to invest in “new” track and switches.
Good old trad track is great, still use the same track my grandfather got in the 50’s.
Nice layout Bob. Do you have any pictures? I am about to begin a new layout myself in an open space that measures about 18x28. I have started with the Christmas present my wife built for me, (3) 4x8 tables. She built (3) 4x8 tables for me that I intend to move around and try a bunch of different layouts while developing a final plan..
With all this space, it’s actually a bit daunting. I look forward to seeing more of your results. Thanks for sharing.
Hi Bob,
Your track plan and layout interest me, and I would enjoy talking with you about them. Also, I have written so much for Classic Toy Trains about the layout in the Lionel catalog for 1957–its history, its plan, and its construction. I would be glad to share with you the issues in which CTT has showcased this memorable layout.
Please contact me at CTT: 262-796-8776 ext. 253
Best,
Roger Carp
Senior Editor